Microsoft flaw making Internet Explorer users vulnerable to hackers

INTERNET Explorer users are being warned that hackers could gain access to their computer after a flaw appeared in the browser.

Microsoft is warning that Internet Explorer versions 6 to 11 have been affected by the flaw which makes them vulnerable to attacks which could allow hackers to gain user rights to a computer.

The computing giant said it was aware of "limited, targeted attacks" on the versions of the browser, which make up more than 50% of the global market, and is taking steps to resolve it.

Microsoft issued a security advisory over the weekend. It said: “On completion of this investigation, Microsoft will take the appropriate action to protect our customers, which may include providing a solution through our monthly security update release process, or an out-of-cycle security update, depending on customer needs.”

The firm ended official support for the Windows XP operating system, meaning there will be no support for people using it.

Those using Windows XP are being advised by Microsoft to upgrade to a newer alternative, as they may be vulnerable to cyber thieves.

The firm said: “The vulnerability exists in the way that Internet Explorer accesses an object in memory that has been deleted or has not been properly allocated.

“The vulnerability may corrupt memory in a way that could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code in the context of the current user within Internet Explorer.

“An attacker could host a specially crafted website that is designed to exploit this vulnerability through Internet Explorer and then convince a user to view the website.”

It added that it continues to encourage customers to follow the guidance in the Microsoft Safety & Security Center of enabling a firewall, applying all software updates, and installing antimalware software.